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Persuasive Writing
Techniques, Organization, and More
Using Logic to Persuade
You are an attorney presenting closing statements to the jury so you should avoid
- insulting the opposition
- name-calling (no "loser" or "moron")
- overuse of sarcasm
- overuse of irony and exaggeration (avoid cliches)
- absolutes such as always, never, all, and every
- use humor carefully when appropriate
- ignoring opposing points of view
Avoiding Falacies
- circular argument - repeating the main point without supplying reasons
- begging the question - making assumptions without supplying support
- faulty analogy - a weak or silly analogy that falls apart when examined
- post hoc fallacy - suggesting A caused B because A occurred prior to B
- either/or fallacy - suggesting that only tow options exist in dealing with an issue
- red herring - deflecting attention from the main argument and highlighting an irrelevant point
- trick question - phrasing a question in such a way that no direct answer is desirable
- name-calling or labeling - focusing on the personal rather that the broader issue
- argument to the people - appealing to emotional biases while ignoring the issues
Ethos, Logos, Pathos
Ethos
Ethos is the Greek word for “character.” In order to convince people to agree with you, you need to establish that you are worth listening to. If your audience thinks you are trustworthy, knowledgeable, likeable, and respectable, they will tend to believe what you are saying.
Pathos
Pathos means appealing to the audience’s emotions. If you can inspire an emotional connection with your audience, get them to feel what you feel, such as anger or pity, or get them to feel sympathetic to your cause, they are more likely to agree with your position.
Logos
Logos means to persuade an audience by logic. This is where you present facts, evidence and reason to convince your audience. Citing authorities and showing that your argument is well-researched can lend your argument credibility.
Logical appeals will convince your readers, but it is important to also include emotional appeals that use figurative language and imagery.
Introduction/Thesis Statement
An engaging opening and our purpose in writing the essay
Body
2-3 Paragraphs
Opposing positions and your response to them
Your evidence; facts, statistics, examples, storiesConclusion
Thesis (worded differently)
Vision of the future
Choosing Your Topic
How do you feel?
Choose a topic that you feel strongly about and have a very definite opinion about. You must be strong in your opinion. No "I think", "In my opinion", "I feel", or anything wishy-washy statements.
Now begin writing!!
Email: satkins@seminole.k12.tx.us
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Location: Seminole High School, Northwest Ave D, Seminole, TX, United States
Phone: 432-758-5873